The diminutive midfielder is just 5ft 5in, but he is determined to prove he is big enough for the Premier League. Bannan feels the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi show size does not matter. "Look at the best players in the world. The world champions and Euro champions are Spain. All the midfielder players are 5ft 8ins maximum," said Bannan, who has just been called up to the full Scotland squad. "The best players in the world are Xavi, Iniesta, Messi. They are all small. I've heard a lot of people say 'your height this, your height that'. But when you look at players like that it boosts your confidence. You think if he can do it then why can't I? "I've always been small - tops didn't fit me at younger ages! But it has never affected me when I have stepped out on to the pitch and I don't see why it does now." Bannan is one of number of Villa prospects to be getting a chance under new boss Gerard Houllier, and he hopes that will continue. "We've had a great youth system over the years and hopefully a few of us can kick on," he added.
